QuestionHi! I live in Texas and got in an automobile accident earlier this year which resulted in a total loss. With the money from insurance, I searched for and eventually bought a used car from an individual. I have not absolutely needed to drive the car since I can ride my bike to where I need to be for now, so I have left it in my garage without driving it at all since putting it in there. My plan was to wait until later this year before getting insurance on it and beginning to drive it, thus saving me money for several months. My mother pointed out that my insurance might possibly backdate my charges to when I bought the car, negating my money-saving plan! Can/will they do that? Thanks!!
AnswerSo, it is actually something you should look up and discuss with the DMV. It is really not allowed to not register and insure a vehicle, even if you're not driving it, per the official rules, although people do it all the time.
It is possible that not maintaining insurance on your vehicle could cause you some extra charges, but the details will be based on the carrier where you seek your policy when you begin the search. One question is invariably included when you get new insurance, which is. . . Have you ever had a lapse in insurance coverage AND/OR Has your vehicle been continuously insured for at least the last 30 days? If you answer and say it was uninsured, then there could be a hefty down payment to get your insurance, but not always, again based on the company and agent (if any) you find.
Your mom is on the right track, it is not technically legal to just not register and insure your vehicle, and it could cost you. If your vehicle were stolen, you'd be left to defend yourself against any damage caused, all because you wanted to save a few bucks on your insurance. Insurance is like a parachute, if you don't have it when you need it, it is useless.
It's not pretty, but it's true. I hope this helps!
